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C6 Corvette: Best and Worst Value Modifcations

So you want to make your Corvette stand out. But how do you go about it and where do you even start? Read all of the best and worst modifications to decide for yourself.

By Jerry Perez - February 3, 2015

This article applies to the C6 Corvette (2005- 2013).

Modifications, (a.k.a. mods) come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Some like to modify the look of their Corvettes, while some like to enhance their interiors, and others head straight under the hood for horsepower gain. All mods have a few things in common such as money and can be addictive, so before you know it, you've modified your entire car. But there is such a thing as bad value mods and good value mods? Read on and judge for yourself.

Worst Value Modifications

Suspension

Figure 1. Suspension modifications changes the performance on the road.

Suspension mods can be considered an exterior modification because they alter the ride-height and overall look of the car. Suspension mods include items like adjustable shocks, springs and sway bars. All of these components dictate how your car handles the road, and how much—or how little—of the road you actually feel. Most forums advise against lowering because one slight change to the stock suspension settings can trigger tedious and expensive side effects. Lowering the car with suspension mods has a direct effect on the ride quality and usually a negative one. Normally, you will feel more bumps and a rougher ride. Plus, there is a good chance your alignment will need to be adjusted. If you choose to do this mod, suspension changes can effect braking performance and the ability to fine tune other components.

Custom Paint and Graphics

Figure 2. Painting can affect the resale value.

Paint and graphics are considered exterior car mods. Once you change the paint of your car, you can modify it to the point that it no longer has any resale value or appeal to anyone else but you. Most custom paint jobs can make a Corvette look amazing, but before you pull the trigger think about how long you plan on keeping your car. If you plan on selling it down the road, the chances are your custom paint job or hood flames won't be appealing to most potential customers.

Oversize Wheels and Tires

Figure 3. Oversize wheels compromise the handling and comfort of the car.

Wheels and tires are another example of common exterior mods. Quite often (on Corvette forums) you can read about someone trying to fit large wheels on their Corvettes. With current trends of oversize wheels sweeping the country, one may want to join the club and follow suit. But, more often than not, oversize wheels happen to be a terrible value mod. While they might look cool—or not—the car's overall handling and comfort will be severely compromised. Also, keep in mind that large wheels with thin or small sidewall run a higher risk of cracking or bending than the manufacturer's setup.

ECU or Engine Chips

Figure 4. Adding super chips will void warranty.

"Super chips" are popular, faster and the easier to improve engine performance. Chips are offered by a variety of companies and offer instant horsepower, MPG and torque gains. While it sounds too good to be true (and some chip manufacturers offer high quality, reputable products), most chips have one thing in common: they void manufacturer's warranty. Any time you mess with the stock electronics or programmable systems, you are kissing your warranty goodbye.

Best Value Modifications

Cold Air Intake

Figure 5. Cold air intakes send cooler air to the engine.

Fitting a cold air intake is a simple bolt-on solution that pays off in multiple ways. A cold air intake replaces the stock intake and filter, which helps guide cooler air into the engine. Cooler air means better combustion and more horsepower. Most cold air intakes are generally quick installs and can be installed with nothing more than a screwdriver. Also, most cold air intakes are engineered to work with manufacturer's specifications and won't void your warranty. Most intakes on the market range from $100 to $350.

Window Tint

Figure 6. Window tinting protects interior from the sun.

How can window tinting be a good value exterior mod? Think about it. When you first buy your Corvette, you can have the dealer charge you $200 to $400 for the window tint, or if you choose to do it elsewhere, you could save about 50 percent. Window tinting does more than complement the overall look of your Corvette. It also protects your leather surfaces from UV ray damage and it will add privacy. Pay for a quality window tinting once and you will reap the benefits for many years.

High Performance Exhaust

Figure 7. There are many types of exhaust systems.

Exhaust system is a type of engine modification that is very popular, and for a good reason. The exhaust allows your Corvette to create horsepower by releasing back pressure through the pipes and out of the tips. But, most importantly, the exhaust systems let your Corvette do some serious showing-off, and there is no better sound than the V8 rumble of a Corvette. Exhaust is single-handedly the one mod that does not have to be seen to be known. All it takes is the roar of the engine for people to know you've arrived. There are many kinds of exhaust systems. Some exhausts focus on power, while some focus on sound and others on both. Install a quality exhaust and enjoy the tune!

Pro Tips

  • No matter how big or small you think your modification project is, always double check your manufacturer's warranty guidelines.
  • If shopping online, buy from a reputable source that offers support and has a well established return and refund policy.
  • Before you tackle any modification projects, make sure that you have the skill level, tools and time requirements to do a quality job.

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